Pennsylvania School Public Relations Association Scholarship

Brainstorming Across the Four Buckets

To create a compelling narrative, gather material across these four areas:

• Background: Reflect on your experiences that led you to public relations. Consider pivotal moments, influences, and motivations that shaped your interest in this field.
• Achievements: Identify specific accomplishments in school or community settings. Quantify your contributions where possible, such as leading a project that improved communication strategies or enhancing community engagement.
• The Gap: Acknowledge what you still need to learn or achieve. Discuss how this scholarship will help bridge that gap, enabling you to gain skills or experiences necessary for your career.
• Personality: Infuse your essay with personal details that showcase your values and character. Share anecdotes that reveal your commitment to public relations and your vision for future impact.

Creating an Outline

Structure your essay to ensure clarity and flow. A suggested outline could include:

1. Introduction: Start with a compelling moment or scene that illustrates your connection to public relations.
2. Background: Discuss your journey and what led you to this field.
3. Achievements: Highlight key accomplishments and their significance.
4. The Gap: Explain your current limitations and how the scholarship will help you overcome them.
5. Conclusion: Reflect on your aspirations and the impact you hope to make in public relations.

Drafting Voice and Style

Write in an active voice, focusing on your role and contributions. Use specific language and avoid vague statements. Ensure each paragraph centers on one idea, leading the reader through your narrative logically. Remember to reflect on your experiences and articulate why they matter, answering the “So what?” question throughout your essay.

Revision and “So What?”

After drafting, take a break before revising. Look for clarity, coherence, and impact in your writing. Ask peers or mentors for feedback, focusing on whether your essay effectively communicates your passion and qualifications. Ensure that each section of your essay contributes to a cohesive narrative that answers the scholarship prompt.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be mindful of these common mistakes:

• Avoid clichés and generic statements that do not add value to your narrative.
• Steer clear of passive voice; always highlight your actions and decisions.
• Do not invent details or embellish your experiences; authenticity is key.
• Ensure your essay is free of grammatical errors and typos, as these can detract from your message.